seniors.gov.au - Question and Answer

Question & Answer

We are discussing Surfing through Computers and the Internet
With Nathanael Boehm, Nan Bosler and DCITA

Question:
What should I do if I receive spam?

Answer:
DCITA -There are a number of steps you can take.

Do not respond to spam from unknown sources—do not use the 'remove' or 'unsubscribe' link or click on any button in the email such as Quit. These links can be used to confirm that an email account is active, and can lead to even more spam being sent.

If the source seems genuine, and the message appears to promote a legitimate Australian business, contact the business and ask them to take you off their mailing lists.

Do not open attachments in any messages if the source of the message is unknown or is suspicious.

Report spam to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) at www.acma.gov.au or install the SpamMATTERS single click spam reporting tool available from the ACMA website.

It is possible to take steps to reduce the amount of spam you receive. You can:

Activate any spam filtering options that your Internet service provider (ISP) offers—check their website;

Install a spam filter to stop spam emails getting to your inbox—you will find spam filters through your favourite search engine and your Internet service provider may list effective spam filters on its website; or

Activate any spam filtering function provided by the email program you use.

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